This New Zealand summer has been extremely windy but it’s also been one of the driest with buckets of sunshine. If you missed the chance to experience some of this incredible weather, don’t worry—there’s plenty of time next summer to explore.
Below you’ll find all my insider travel tips for making the most of these spots and where to visit next summer in New Zealand. Whether you love hiking, beach days, or hidden gems, these six locations offer something special.
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AUCKLAND’S WEST COAST
Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), is home to some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes, offering countless spots to spend the summer. The west coast, in particular, is home to swimming spots, incredible hiking trails, and lush native bush which expands across a dramatic coastline. All of which are so close to the city.
Having spent the last decade in Auckland and visited the Waitākere Ranges multiple times, I can confidently say that you won’t regret visiting this place. Here are just some of my favourite spot that are a must-visit:
- Piha Beach – Famous for its surf, dramatic cliffs, and Lion Rock. This beach is an Auckland icon, perfect for a summer day trip. You can read more about it here.
- Omanawanui Track – A hike with plenty of stairs but well worth it for incredible, panoramic views. You can find out more on what to expect in my detailed post.
- Te Waha Point – One of my favourite short walks with a stunning coastal lookout and ocean views. Discover why it’s a must-see in my blog.
- Anawhata Beach – This is a secluded beach, perfect for those seeking a quiet alternative to busier beaches like Piha. Read more about this hidden spot here.
- Mercer Bay Loop – A short and popular walk with some high sea cliff views. Mixed in with the dramatic coastline and breathtaking scenery makes this a must-do in summer. See my full guide here.
- Comans Track – This is a trail that also incorporates Mercer Bay Loop and extends on the incredible coastal scenery. If you’d like to know more, I’ve written all about it here.
- Karekare Beach – A black sand beach with nearby waterfalls and scenic trails. This wild and rugged location is straight out of a postcard. Get all the details in my full post.
KAI IWI LAKES
Located within the Taharoa Domain in Northland, New Zealand, Kai Iwi Lakes is known for its crystal-clear freshwater, soft white sand, and stunning surroundings. Being a Kiwi, and so acclimatised to the ocean, it was nice to switch it up and spend some time lake side. And unlike the ocean, these dune-formed lakes offer calm, warm waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Camping at Kai Iwi Lakes is a pretty epic experience. We spent two nights at the Pine Beach Campground. Between there and Lake Taharoa was where we spent most of our time. It’s also not only a great place for swimming and sunbathing but it’s an incredible spot for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, the night sky is spectacular.
Here you’ll find plenty of families, couples and groups, all at different ages. Even if you’re in the area I would highly suggest visiting for a day. Camping overnight is the ultimate experience but overall its a must-visit location for summer.
BAY OF ISLANDS
Nestled in Northland, the Bay of Islands is an absolute must-visit in the New Zealand summer. Picture pristine beaches, endless days on the water, and a rich connection to New Zealand’s history.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Bay of Islands a few times, and each trip has left me with incredible experiences. After exploring the region, there are a few things I wouldn’t want to miss—and I’ve listed them all below.
- Visit the Islands – Waewaetorea Island and Otaio Bay/Urupukapuka Island offer snorkelling, swimming, hiking, and bird-watching. We stopped to see both in one day whilst on a boat trip and it’s a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds – One of the most significant historical sites in New Zealand, marking the 1840 signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between Māori chiefs and the British Crown.
- Rainbow Falls – A beautiful 27-meter waterfall near Kerikeri, with multiple viewpoints, a scenic walking track, and a stunning swimming spot at its base.
- Hiking Trails – From easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes, there’s something for everyone. I can highly suggest Opito Bay, a short hike, Dukes Nose, a day hike and if you’re feeling extra adventurous, an overnight trek like Cape Brett.
TAWHARANUI
Tawharanui Regional Park is a coastal sanctuary located just over an hour from Auckland city. I’ve only recently visited again, and I really regret not spending more time here both this summer and in previous ones. It really encompasses everything you’d want for a beach day, comes with plenty of open space and beautiful views to boot. With a mix of white sandy beaches and rolling farmland, it’s an ideal destination for a New Zealand summer day trip.
The main beach at Tawharanui is perfect for swimming, surfing and paddle boarding. Even for those who love hiking, I highly recommend the Tawharanui Point via North Coast and South Coast Tracks. You will have incredible coastal views the entire walk and you’ll encounter some of the wildlife like sheep and pukeko. The area is also a protected wildlife sanctuary, making it a great place to spot native birds.
BAY OF PLENTY
The Bay of Plenty is where I grew up, spending my summers by the ocean until I moved to Auckland. This region is known for many things, with its golden beaches, vibrant towns, and diverse outdoor activities being just a few. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or something in between, there’s no shortage of places to explore, especially during the summer months.
One of my favourite things about summers in the Bay of Plenty is how effortlessly you can transition from the beach to the forest, from bustling city vibes to quiet coastal retreats. The region’s laid-back lifestyle, warm climate, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities make it an unbeatable summer destination. You’ll find everything from surf beaches and scenic coastal walks to waterfalls and lush native bush.
Here are some of my favourite places to explore during a New Zealand summer:
- Pukehina Beach – This is where I spend most of my time when away from Auckland as my parents have lived here for 10+ years. It’s a quiet beach, much more enjoyable than some of the more popular spots along this coastline.
- Papamoa Hills Regional Park – This is one of the best spots for a short or long walk, depending on what you’re feeling up to. Either way, you’ll have panoramic views of the coastline, reaching both north and south of the region.
- Mount Maunganui – This is a super popular summer destination. With it’s fantastic surf and a scenic summit walk, you really can’t go wrong! Just be prepared for it to be quite busy.
- Tarawera Falls – This is a 65 meter (213 ft) high waterfall on the Tarawera River, known for its bright blue waters, lush native bush and stunning falls. It’s definitely a must-visit in New Zealand.
SUMMARY
In this post, we’ve explored the 6 places in the North Island you should visit during a New Zealand summer. From crystal-clear lakes to rugged coastal hikes and golden beaches. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or scenic walks, these locations offer something for everyone.
Looking for more summer inspiration? Check out my comprehensive travel guides for even more ultimate New Zealand destinations.